Parkinson's Perspective - Q1 2024

The Parkinson’s Perspective Volume 44, Issue 1

First Quarter, 2024

Serving OR and S. WA

Canine Connections

BY CAROL CLUPNEY AND JANE MILLER From Carol Clupney in Hermiston A beautiful 67 lb. yellow Labrador Retriever has come to work for me.

I pay him with kibble and praise.

When he wears his service coat, I am bombarded with questions.

Why do you need a service dog?

What does he do for you? What is his name?

(Jane, Angus, Carol, and Leroy at Graduation!)

Joys of Living Assistance Dogs (JLAD) has been on our radar for more than a decade as we watched in marvel how one of our PRO community worked so smoothly with his dog. Not only was Jack a beautiful animal, he was an integral part of our friend’s life – indispensable for many of the routine activities that Parkinson’s disease can disrupt.

Since that time, service dogs for Parkinson’s have become a bit more common, but no less remarkable, in their commitment to service of their handler. We invited two members of the PRO community, Jane and Carol to share about their recent experiences with JLAD and their new teammates!

MORE INFO! (800) 426-6806 - WWW.PARKINSONSRESOURCES.ORG

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Because of the Americans with Disabilities Act, I am not required to reveal my disability. I will tell people my dog is specially trained to assist me with many activities of daily living. Yesterday he pushed the button to open the wheelchair-accessible door, transferred clothes from the floor into a basket, took clean clothes out of the dryer, pulled off my socks, and assisted in removing my jacket.

I don’t readily reveal his name.

Someone might call him when he is working, (Continued on page 6) FIRST QUARTER, 2024 • 1

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Calendar of Events REGISTRATION AT WWW.PRO.EVENTBRITE.COM Some of the details on these (and other programs) are still being finalized as we go to print. Please check our website (parkinsonsresources. org) or the event registration site (pro.eventbrite.com) for the latest information! It is critical that you register, so that we may plan materials and send links for virtual programs.

WELLNESS Fill your week with a variety of classes!

Communication Skills Group The new session starts January 5th - Join at any time. Fridays, 11 AM -------- VIRTUAL -------Parkinson’s can take a toll on voice strength and clarity – research shows that people with Parkinson’s speak about 60% less than similarly-aged people without Parkinson’s!

This virtual series is led by Julia Robinson, Speech-Language Pathologist from Legacy Health. Just as you exercise your body to maintain movement, participating in voice exercise will help to maintain your voice clarity, volume and breathing!

This class is great whether you have participated in speech therapy or not; practicing with a group allows for social connection as well!.

Thank you to Legacy Health for support and partnership.

Singing 3rd Thursday of the month -------- HYBRID -------All are welcome. We’ll have a Zoom link to share for those who are not able to join us in person at the PRO

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offices in Beaverton. Participants who join the fun virtually will also receive a song list and lyrics in advance of the group.

Sing along with our gifted and beloved volunteers, Michelle Garratt, Jill Williams and Kera Magarill!

Movement Classes w/Laura Lou New sessions start the first week of January - Mondays, Wednesdays at 11 AM & Fridays at 1 PM -------- VIRTUAL -------If you’re looking for an exercise class that helps with mobility but also leaves you with a smile on your face, join our virtual Movement class with instructor Laura Lou! Designed for those with PD, the program combines yoga, tai chi, and dance to improve flexibility, strength, and balance. Laura Lou Pape-McCarthy also works to improve the use of facial muscles and incorporates vocal exercises while you move.

McMinnville Movement Class Series Thursdays 11 AM | McMinnville Senior Center -------- IN PERSON -------The focus is on mobility and safety, with movements that improve strength, balance, endurance, and flexibility. Classes are designed to accommodate varying degrees of ability and limitations. Movements include gentle stretching, both seated and standing exercises, and hand-eye coordination. The class is a light-hearted, friendly environment of camaraderie where all are welcome with open arms! Instructed by longtime fitness trainer Bill Wilson, BA, CPT-CSCS (ret.) who brings many years of expertise with neurological challenges.

Breathing Yoga Begins January 16th Mondays 4:45 - 5:15 PM -------- VIRTUAL -------Practice breath control and synchronizing breath with movement.

Just 30 minutes helps energize the body and mind and reduce stress.

This practice may benefit those with tremors, improve memory and cognitive functions, help with sleeping disorders, provide mental-emotional stability, build confidence, and improve quality of life.

Mindful Meditation Class Wednesdays at 12:15 - 1 PM The next session starts January 12th (OK to start any time!)

-------- VIRTUAL -------If you are feeling anxious, stressed, or depressed, we offer Mindfulness FREE. Mindfulness activates brain circuits that help with feeling happy and regulate emotions. Instructor Martha McJacobs has been a mindful practitioner and teacher for over 40 years. Her passion is to help people experience life in the present with courage and kindness.

Carepartners are welcome. Thank you Washington County for sponsoring.

EDUCATION Preparing for the Unexpected in Salem January 10th (Wednesday) 1 - 2:30 PM -------- IN PERSON -------This program is for those in crucial roles as caregivers (for self or others) and is intended to help address the need to plan. Participants will gain resources and identify steps

MORE INFO! (800) 426-6806 - WWW.PARKINSONSRESOURCES.ORG

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to take to get prepared, rally support, and identify roles for family and friends. We also cover tips for finding care resources, and gathering and organizing crucial personal and medical information. Hosted in partnership with NW Senior Disability Services, 3410 Cherry Ave NE Salem. Pre-registration required; Libby Kennard, at 541-345-2988 or Libby@parkinsonsresources.org

will provide an overview of what the signs and symptoms are, and what treatment options and resources are available. We will also discussi the importance of exercise along with guidelines and strategies for managing symptoms. Presented by Mike Mulligan, Community Health Education Coordinator.

Therapeutic Development for Neurodegenerative Disease

January 26th (Friday) 4 - 5:30 PM -------- VIRTUAL -------DBS is a surgical procedure to treat motor complications in Parkinson’s disease. If you are considering DBS, this is the place to learn more, ask questions, and hear about other’s experiences. If you’ve had DBS and would like to share or compare your experience with others, this is the forum for that connection.

January 20th (Saturday) 1 PM PRO Office Beaverton -------- IN PERSON -------These are exciting times for chronic neurodegenerative disease research. For Parkinson’s disease, there is now a test for a key biomarker that can indicate disease pathology in the brain even before the clinical symptoms emerge. The pipeline of Parkinson’s disease drug candidates is stronger than ever, and it appears that soon we may have a blood-based marker of brain pathology for early diagnosis.

The talk will highlight the current pipeline and opportunities for developing the drugs that have the potential to slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease. Presenter: Dr. Kalpana Merchant has been studying Parkinson’s disease biology to help develop therapeutics for more than 20 years. She is an advisor to the Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research and other companies developing medicines for Parkinson’s and other neurodegenerative diseases.

Parkinson’s 101 in McMinnville January 23rd (Tues) 1:30 - 2:30 PM McMinnville Senior Center -------- IN PERSON -------If you have recently been diagnosed with PD, or simply want to know more about this condition and what proactive steps one can take to manage it, this presentation

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Conversation

This is a quarterly event, with a speaker every other quarter. Registering is required!

Lift Workshop for Family Caregivers February 16th in Bend -------- IN PERSON -------Does your loved one have trouble with mobility? Are you worried about how to help them out of bed or out of a car? Or, do you just want to be prepared for what may lie ahead? During this 90 minute program, our instructors will lead you through the proper and safe techniques to transfer your loved one who has mobility issues due to PD. This is an interactive workshop for family caregivers only, space is limited. Led by Shannon Compton and David Seck, DPT Spark Rehab and Wellness.

Presented by Garvin Reiter, J.D., CELA, this talk will help you understand how a chronic condition like Parkinson’s may affect your financial planning.

Parkinson’s 101 with Dr. Elise Anderson March 7th (Thursday) 3 PM -------- VIRTUAL -------Are you concerned about symptoms you notice in yourself or a loved one? Have you recently been diagnosed? This program may help you understand what Parkinson’s is and is not and why it is difficult to diagnose. During this lecture, Dr. Anderson will cover: • What is PD? Disease progression and prognosis • Initial Treatment: Medication, Rehab and Exercise • Living with Parkinson’s: Non-motor symptoms • Surgical and future therapies Elise Anderson, M.D., is a board-certified neurologist specializing in movement disorders with Providence Health & Services. She treats patients with a wide range of neurological conditions including PD.

Financial and Legal Affairs

Improve Your Quality of Life | Pendleton Event

February 28th 5 PM PRO Beaverton Office -------- IN PERSON -------With a new diagnosis of Parkinson’s, there can be so many questions.

March 12th (Tuesday) 4 PM St. Anthony’s Hospital -------- IN PERSON -------With the support of allied health, exercise will continue your ability to

MORE INFO! (800) 426-6806 - WWW.PARKINSONSRESOURCES.ORG

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Naturally, the initial focus of one’s attention is on the medical management of the disease. But other parts of life are impacted and need to be considered. Regardless of age, this talk is for those who are at the beginning of their PD journey, or who are now starting to think about what legal steps they should be aware of and should be implementing to protect assets and the financial security of the care partner and other family members.

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Calendar of Events CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 be mobile and help slow the progression of the disease. Presented by local Physical Therapists, Erika Simburger and Ailea Villanueva.

Lift Workshop for Caregivers March 13th at PRO Office in Beaverton -------- IN PERSON -------Does your loved one have trouble with mobility? Are you worried about how to help them out of bed or out of a car? Or, do you just want to be prepared for what may lie ahead? During this 90 minute program, our instructor will lead you through the proper and safe techniques to transfer your loved one who has mobility issues due to PD. This is an interactive workshop for family caregivers only, space is limited. Led by Lisa Gilbertson, PT, MS

March 26th (Tuesday), 7 - 8:30 PM -------- VIRTUAL -------Parkinson’s disease is the second most common neurological disorder, impacting over 15,000 people in Oregon and SW Washington. In this webinar, we will discuss the distinctions between Parkinson’s disease dementia and other types of dementia. Hosted by Oregon Care Partners with Carla Bryant. This event is part of their family caregiver webinar series. Presented by Peggy Rost, CSWA, MPA, Social Worker, and Libby Kennard, Mid-Valley Lead Coordinator Register: info@oregoncarepartners.com

SOCIAL, COMMUNITY & FUN The Bitchins Benefit Concert

Hope in PD | Coos Bay Event March 21st (Thursday) 3:30 - 5 PM Coos Bay Public Library -------- IN PERSON -------Join us to discuss current treatments, ongoing research studies, and how to maintain hope in the face of Parkinson’s disease. There are more treatment options for Parkinson’s disease now than there have ever been. This is an exciting time with the development of new biomarkers for Parkinson’s disease through spinal fluid, as well as new diagnostics through skin biopsy.

February 3rd 7:00PM - 11:00PM The Gemini, Lake Oswego DO NOT MISS this once-a-year bash by one of the best horn-driven bands you will hear. Consisting of some of the most talented musicians from Portland and around the country, The Bitchins will have you dancing all night long, playing the best of Tower of Power, Chicago, Joe Cocker, AWB, Stevie Wonder, Steely Dan, Toto, James Brown, and more! ALL PROCEEDS go to Parkinson’s Resources of Oregon.

a little friendly competition at the PRO Beaverton office. Table Tennis for PD at the West Linn Senior Center on Tuesdays 1 PM. Drop in or call Nia (503.594.0901) for details. Table tennis opportunities exist for interested players in Bend and Eugene as well. Please be in touch so that we can connect you!

Ping Pong Tournament for Parkinson’s

-------- IN PERSON -------February 17th (Saturday) 11 AM PRO Beaverton Office The event is open to Parkinson’s players who reside in Oregon. No entry fees! Doors open @ 11 AM. Pre-registration is necessary - send name to tournament directorRobsolomon33@gmail.com. You’ll receive a confirmation by return e-mail. Spectators welcome - no need to pre-register.

Questions? Email Coach Rob.

Bend Health Fair | Riverhouse Convention Center March 23rd (Saturday) 9 AM - 3 PM PRO staff will be at the 3rd Annual Health Fair in Bend with local health experts, businesses, and community members. No registration.

Table Tennis at PRO

Thank you to the Roundhouse Foundation for support to make this program possible!

Understanding PD Dementia 4 • FIRST QUARTER, 2024

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-------- IN PERSON -------There is strong evidence to support Ping Pong as therapeutic with benefits as a form of exercise and helpful with eye-hand coordination. Join us Monday and Wednesday afternoons with our coach and MORE INFO! (800) 426-6806 - WWW.PARKINSONSRESOURCES.ORG

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Have a Ball with Jacob Weiss

COMMUNITY PROGRAM & TRAINING FOR PROFESSIONALS Have a Ball for the Community March 1st (Friday) Details: www.PRO.Eventbrite.com Get ready for a workshop filled with joyful creativity as you learn how to practice fun hand-eye coordination challenges that exercise your brain and body! Dr. Jacob Weiss, director of HandEyeBody Academy, will lead the group through accessible exercises for people with Parkinson’s and their caregivers and families that get everyone smiling and moving together. No experience is necessary, and each part of the program can be adapted for people of all abilities. Let’s have a ball and lend a hand!

This is an IN PERSON Workshop.

Calling All Instructors, Physical Therapists, and Occupational Therapists - Professional Training in Parkinson’s (In-person) March 2nd (Saturday) 9AM-3PM Improve your confidence teaching innovative hand-eye coordination and full-body exercises that your clients will love! The in-person Parkinson’s Coaching Creativity Workshop is a six-hour professional training course designed for Par-

kinson’s coaches and therapists, to empower you with novel exercises and strategies for hand-eye coordination, dual-tasking, balance, fine motor skills, amplitude training, and more, all while fostering a sense of fun and accomplishment for your clients.

By completing this course, you will gain the foundational skills, confidence, and tools to design fun and functional exercises and modifications that are just the right challenge for your clients with Parkinson’s disease. Be inspired when you see your clients light up in ways you’ve never seen before!

The training will help you tap into research-informed exercise strategies, such as dual-tasking and big amplitude movements, by utilizing creative frameworks that infuse fun, freshness, and engagement into proven exercise styles that benefit people with Parkinson’s. The curriculum utilizes accessible and affordable tools, including balls, beanbags, scarves, cups, and printable HandEyeBody Coordination Charts.

be fun for all abilities, you don’t want to miss this course!

Led by Jacob Weiss, PhD About Jacob Weiss, PhD Jacob Weiss, Ph.D., is the founder of HandEyeBody Academy, a social enterprise with a mission to help people learn how to move better, focus better, and function better, by teaching hand-eye coordination exercises that are creative, fun, and accessible for all abilities. Since earning his Ph.D. at Vanderbilt University in Biomedical Informatics after graduating from Princeton University, Dr. Weiss has developed and shared his interactive training programs with teachers, trainers, coaches, therapists, movement educators, and organizations around the world.

If you strive to be creative and think outside the box, and if you believe that exercise and wellness should (Jacob Weiss, PhD)

NEW SUPPORT GROUP FOR TIME OF LOSS Beyond PD Support Group meets online on the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 3pm. This meeting is for people who have lost someone to Parkinson’s recently. It is a small, newly formed group that is welcoming new members. Please contact Libby Kennard for information - 541.345.2988.

MORE INFO! (800) 426-6806 - WWW.PARKINSONSRESOURCES.ORG

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Canine Connections (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1) joined my family members at our graduation on October 14.

These special dogs are chosen for this type of work for their temperament and ability to learn. They need care and attention above what I have given to my “pet” dogs, and I require help from my husband. As for Leroy and me? We both continue to learn about each other, but we are off to a good start.

fate that we had both been investigating the idea of moving forward with this whole dog thing. Carol was a godsend, one who could type AND remember what people told us we should do. We spent the next year applying for the chance to get a dog (there is no guarantee we would get one by the time we’d need one), raising funds (applying, interviewing, getting the word out), and making sure we were on the same page.

From Jane Miller in Tigard

(Carol & Leroy) and that distraction could be dangerous for me.

Jane Miller and I were acquainted through PRO activities but really became friends when we were in the process of applying for a service dog through Joy of Living Assistance Dogs of Salem, OR. We both were accepted to be recipients but were warned it could take 2-3 years to find a good match.

After many months of waiting, I received a call to take the 225-mile drive to meet some dogs. After interacting with three dogs, I sat down for a few minutes. A yellow lab hopped up on the chair next to me and put his head on my shoulder. He chose me!

On October 1st I attended a leash release ceremony at the Eastern Oregon Correctional Institute in Pendleton, where many of JLAD’s dogs are trained. Next, it was Salem where Leroy, Charlie, and I participated in our two-week Partner Training. Jane, her dog and her son 6 • FIRST QUARTER, 2024

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I fall a lot. I also drop things, lose things, and spend too much time wandering around my small condo wondering how I am going to make it through the world of Parkinson’s disease.

Joy and her project supervisor, Anna, spend an exorbitant amount of time doing everything that is needed to find and train dogs who

I began researching the future and realized that a service dog was the way to go. Specific training. Companionship. I am a dog person and do better with someone around me, which was good because my neurologist agreed with me that living alone would not be a good idea.

Further research brought me to Joy St. Peter, founder, and owner of Joys of Living Assistance Dogs, and to my friend, Carol. I think it was

(Jane, her son Jared, and Angus)

Remember, service animals are highly trained and WORKING to support their owner in important ways - Do you know the tips for interacting with a service dog? Want to learn more? Ask the owner!

• • • • •

Recognize and speak with the service dog owner first Never distract a service dog - they have an important job and need to remain focused Keep your own dog a safe distance away Never offer a service dog food or treats Offer service dogs and their owners right of way

MORE INFO! (800) 426-6806 - WWW.PARKINSONSRESOURCES.ORG

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Canine Connections (CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6) not only obey commands but think independently when needed. A dog with the right temperament, skills, size, and innate desire to help.

In April of this year, Joy and Anna selected some dogs they thought could fill the bill. Looking at the smaller, younger dogs, their similarities stood out.

Then I saw the huge yellow dog who would steal my heart. I looked at his face with its deep brown eyes and slobbery jowls. As he put his

head in my hands, we locked eyes, and I thought, This is it. This is him.

The end of May found me and one other person/dog combo in the training class. I was so grateful that I had brought my son, Jared. Adding his ears, eyes, and brain was a huge help. I was able to lean on his shoulder and make it through the week.

We would have only one week instead of two, but while the duration was shortened, content and training were not. It was great fun, though, as we had to pass a tough out-in-the-world test. The week

went by so quickly, like someone said, “POOF!” and the next thing we knew we were driving home on I-5 with a dog in the back seat.

JLAD takes the next six months to make absolutely certain that dogs and people made the right decision.

It’s basically a “Take Home Test.”

I am resting easy knowing I have found a kindred spirit, a beautiful old spirit, all in a huge yellow dog.

Want to learn more about JLAD? Website is www.joydogs.org

Monthly Giving Makes It Easy For You and for PRO Want to check off a very easy win early in this new year? Become a monthly donor! Monthly giving, also known as recurring giving, is when our supporters commit to making a contribution of a fixed amount to us on a monthly basis, instead of just a one-time donation. This approach to charitable giving offers multiple benefits for both you (the donor) and PRO: Flexibility for you as a donor: Monthly giving allows you to contribute an amount that fits comfortably within your budget, and enables you to spread your support out over the course of the whole year, making giving even more manageable. For example, $50 per month for 12 months might be easier to manage than coming up with $600 all at once.

Easy, automatic giving, or “set it and forget it:” Automated payments

make it effortless for you, the donor, to set up and manage your monthly contribution. This simplicity also benefits PRO because it reduces administrative overhead/staff time.

After a very simple one-time set up, your credit card or your bank account is debited automatically—you never have to think about it again (although you’ll want to, as you pat yourself on the back for making a difference)!

Reduced fundraising costs for PRO: Monthly givers help us spend less staff time trying to acquire new donors and more time supporting folks living with Parkinson’s. When you give monthly, you let us shift some of our focus to cultivating and maintaining our relationships with you and other existing supporters.

Smoother sailing ahead for folks with PD and for PRO programs: Your monthly giving allows PRO to allocate our resources better and

MORE INFO! (800) 426-6806 - WWW.PARKINSONSRESOURCES.ORG

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more strategically for our extensive list of programs, because your consistent gift is part of a steady, predictable stream of income. Knowing we can count on you to be by our side month after month also helps us address long-term initiatives and goals, and does even more to make sure everyone can access resources.

Why not start 2024 knowing you’ve just made things easier for yourself—and that you’re already helping folks in our PRO family have a better year, too? That’s what we call “win-win!” Contact our office today online at www. parkinsonsresources.org or at (800) 426-6806 to get set up in less than two minutes, and enjoy the feeling of checking off a new year’s goal. Cheers to a great—and easier—new year!

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Musicians’ Corner Parkinson’s Resources of Oregon (PRO) is honored to have musicians (who happen to also live with PD) share their talent and generosity with us. Three in particular, Phil Hodapp, Don Tolan, and Allen Ingram, all say playing music inspires and motivates them to face their disease and each has used their gifts to support and uplift others with events in partnership with PRO.

(Allen Ingram) Allen Ingram plays a mean guitar.

His goal for hosting the 2nd annual “You’re Not Alone” concert was to raise awareness about PD and be a resource for others. In Willamina, OR on November 4, 2023, over 20

musicians gathered to play and celebrate their friend, Allen. The concert raised over $2,100 and made new connections for PRO. Thank you to everyone who generously donated their time and money in support of PRO and Allen.

Don Tolan and his bluegrass band, Rogue Moon, generously performed at the 2023 PeDal Support bike ride in Vernonia. Lucky for us, Don is a regular at the PRO office, taking exercise and yoga classes. You can follow Don and Rogue Moon at roguebluegrassband.com.

Those who’ve attended a recent Portland Sole Support walk, know Phil Hodapp and the Return Flight band. Each February Phil assembles musicians from around the country to perform in an annual concert benefiting PRO. The Bitchins is a high-powered funk and rock ensemble that raises the roof and gets you dancing! Lucky for us, February is just around the corner - Don’t

miss this night of fun and funk benefiting PRO!

(Phil Hodapp)

The Bitchins Annual Concert February 3rd 7:00pm - 11:00pm Gemini Bar, Lake Oswego Call PRO 800.426.6806 for ticket details Do you have an idea for a benefit fundraiser in your community? Reach out to Jeannine Walker, jeannine@parkinsonsresources.org for details and work with PRO for a successful event.

BottleDrop Give and PRO CH-CH-CH-CHANGES...

Bottle Drop Give is a way for you to turn your $.10 redeemable bottles and cans into a donation to support Parkinson’s Resources of Oregon!

Anyone in Oregon can participate (sorry friends in Washington).

There are TWO ways to participate!

Blue Bags: Reach out to your local PRO office to request special blue bags with a Parkinson’s Resources barcode sticker. Fill your bag with your redeemable beverage containers and drop off at any Bottle Drop location.

Green Bags: If you already have a 8 • FIRST QUARTER, 2024

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Bottle Drop account and use Green bags - you can transfer any amount in your account to Parkinson’s Resources!

Bottle Drop related, please email Ginger at ginger@parkinsonsresources.org.

Starting in 2024, we will no longer be tracking Bottle Drop proceeds by individual or to individual fundraisers and Sole Support teams. INSTEAD, all proceeds collected from each region will go towards the overall fundraising goal of that area’s walk in the Fall!

If you have any questions about the recent changes, want to get a supply of bags, or anything else MORE INFO! (800) 426-6806 - WWW.PARKINSONSRESOURCES.ORG

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Looking for a Life-Changing Adventure?

PASSTOPASS SUPPORTS HIKERS WITH PD PasstoPass is a nonprofit dedicated to raising Parkinson’s Disease awareness while supporting hikers with PD. This group of volunteers (and llamas!) offers 12 multi-day llama-assisted backpacking and hiking trips on the Pacific Crest Trail in Washington, Oregon and California in 2024.

(PasstoPass in Cascades) Most backpacking hikes have four Parkinson’s hikers, four support hikers, and four llamas carrying the gear for the Parkinson’s hikers. The Parkinson’s hikers themselves carry a small daypack weighing 15-18 pounds.

PasstoPass will also offer opportunities to participate in day hikes in the following US regions: Washington, Oregon, southern California, Utah, New York and New England.

Participants are being recruited now for these exciting 2024 events. For more details and information visit www.passtopass.org.

New Year of Opportunities and Connection!

BY MELISSA GREER, PROGRAM DIRECTOR PRO has been planning educational events, workshops, and new community visits. We are committed to more live, local, direct, and personal services!

Many of us have grown accustomed to online events. At PRO we believe education is valuable and necessary, but when coupled with personal connection it becomes powerful. You’ll notice that we are not stepping away from virtual altogether. This quarter we have a virtual PD 101 presented by a Movement Disorder Specialist, and back by popular demand,

our quarterly Deep Brain Stimulation virtual conversation.

We have been listening to your needs and requests and we can’t do it alone. We are working closely with our generous partners to bring access to expert speakers and hope you find the schedule exciting.

With winter weather and fire season becoming expected occurrences, many of our trips are planned around safety. If you do not see anything listed in your region, do not worry. Over 35 in-person events throughout OR and SW WA this year, we will connect soon!

MORE INFO! (800) 426-6806 - WWW.PARKINSONSRESOURCES.ORG

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(Melissa Greer, Program Director) Keep checking our event page, pro. eventbrite.com for more events.

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Area Group Meetings Our peer-led groups are meeting in person, online, and hybrid. If a group is hybrid, you can join via Zoom or in person. We also have PRO staff hosted meetings for all clients and carepartners needing support or engagement.

GENERAL INTEREST PD GROUPS All Area General - Zoom 1st Wed, 1:00 pm PRO, 800.426.6806 Albany - In Person 2nd Wed, 4:00 pm Lynn, 541.936.6154 Ashland - Hybrid 3rd Wed, 3:00 pm Laurie, 650.575.8434 Gail, 479.420.8939 Astoria - In Person 2nd Mon, 1:00 pm Donna, 503.738.5295 Beaverton - In Person 1st Thur, 11:00 am Nia, 971.727.3532 Bend - In Person 3rd Wed, 2:00 pm Jess, 541.668.6599 Canby - In Person 1st Mon, 2:00 pm Shirley, 503.380.1712 Clackamas - In Person 3rd Tue, 3:00 pm Kim, 503.698.1600 Coos Bay - In Person 2nd Thurs, 1:00 pm Aaron, 541.808.1336

Corvallis - Hybrid 2nd Tue, 11:00 am Betty, 541.760.1737 Eugene/Springfield Hybrid 2nd Tue, 10:30 am Dave, 541.686.8615 Florence - In Person 4th Thur, 1:00 pm JoAnne, 541.633.3330 Gresham - In Person 2nd Tue, 2:00 pm Kevin, 503.278.0516 Hermiston - In Person 3rd Wed, 1:30 pm Carol, 541.720.4256

Medford - In Person 3rd Sat, 11:00 am Curt, 541.601.0602

Sherwood - In Person Last Thur, 1:00 pm Teresa, 503.625.9481

Medford, Rogue Valley Manor - In Person 3rd Tues, 1:30 pm Meridel, 541.857.6605

The Dalles - In Person 1st Thur, 10:45 am Chad, ChadSw@mcmc.net

Newberg - In Person 3rd Thur, 10:00 am Marshall, 503.550.7670

Tigard - In Person 2nd Wed, 10:00 am Jane, 630.564.2624 Caren, 336.202.6601

Pendleton - NEW GROUP COMING Watch email for details!

Tillamook - Hybrid 2nd Thur, 2:00 pm Randy, 314.458.1970

Providence Portland Zoom 2nd Tue, 10:00 am Theresa, 971-358-9499

Vancouver, WA - In Person 4th Mon, 1:00 pm Jan, 360.433.6400

Hillsboro - In Person 2nd Mon, 2:30 pm Mark, 503.718.7484

Redmond - In Person 2nd Mon, 1:00 pm Ginny, 541.548.6310

Klamath Falls - In Person 3rd Tue, 1:00 pm Ron, 541.591.0686 Kate, 541.882.3928

Roseburg - In Person 2nd Mon, 1:30 pm Sandy, 541.430.1286

La Grande - In Person 1st Thur, 4:00 pm Kate, 541.969.0883

West Vancouver, WA Hybrid 3rd Fri, 1:00 pm Hope, 518.265.0340 Pat, 360.823.6683 West Linn - In Person 2nd Thur, 1:30 pm Tiffany, 503.557.4704

Salem - In Person 2nd Tue, 1:30 pm Jayne, 503.930.4239

INTERESTED IN HELPING TO START A NEW SUPPORT GROUP FOR YOUR COMMUNITY? PRO PROVIDES RESOURCES, TRAINING, AND ONGOING ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT FOR THE VOLUNTEER GROUP FACILITATORS IN OREGON AND SW WASHINGTON. CONTACT NIA (NIA@PARKINSONSRESOURCES.ORG) FOR MORE INFORMATION!

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MORE INFO! (800) 426-6806 - WWW.PARKINSONSRESOURCES.ORG

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Area Group Meetings Continued from Page 10

SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS Alternative Approaches Zoom 2nd Tue, 7:00 pm (alternate months) Tasha, 503.788.2333

Caring for a Parent - Zoom Newly Diagnosed < 3 yrs Care Partner Group Zoom 3rd Thurs, 5:00 pm 2nd Wed, 1:30 pm PRO, 800.426.6806 PRO, 800.426.6806

Eugene/Springfield YOPD Beyond Parkinson’s - Zoom <50- Zoom Care Partner Loss Group 3rd Wed, 6:30 pm 2nd Wed, 3:00 pm Libby, 541.345.2988 Libby, 541.345.2988 MSA/PSP - Zoom 4th Sat, 10:30 am Akiko, 503.853.9584

PD without a Partner Zoom 4th Thurs, 1:00 pm Shari, 503.348.2665

Veteran’s PD Group Zoom 2nd Fri, 10:00 am Kristi, 503.220.8262 x58594 Women with PD - Zoom 1st Mon, 5:00 pm Nicol, 253.226.4069

Portland YOPD Happy Hour - Zoom 3rd Fri, 4:30pm Jeff, jeff.lasley@gmail.com

CARE PARTNER GROUPS All Area Care Partner Zoom 4th Wed, 1:00 pm PRO, 800.426.6806

Dementia and PD - Zoom Care Partner Group 1st Thurs, 1:00 pm PRO, 800.426.6806

Ashland - Zoom Care Partner Group 1st & 3rd Fri, 9:30 am Ann, 415.279.8754

Early Stage Women’s Zoom Care Partner Group 1st Tues, 11:00 am Martha, 503.830.7246

Astoria - In Person Care Partner Group 4th Tue, 1:00 pm Donna, 503.738.5295 Bend, Newly Diagnosed - In Person Care Partner Group 2nd Thur, 1:00 pm Caryn, 206.799.1531

Lewy Body Dementia Zoom Care Partner Group 2nd Sat, 1:00 pm 4th Wed, 10:00 am Kathy, 971.222.7526 MSA/PSP - Zoom Care Partner Group 3rd Fri, 12:00 pm PRO, 800.426.6806

Eugene/Springfield - Zoom Care Partner Group Portland - Zoom 4th Tue, 1:30 pm Care Partner Group Carla, 541.515.6604 1st Tue, 7:00 pm Jennifer, 503.318.5283

Women Care Partners Zoom Care Partner Group 1st Wed, 3:00 pm Mary, 503.579.2792 Vancouver, WA - In Person Care Partner Group 1st Mon, 1:00 pm Jan, 360.433.6400 Vancouver, WA - Zoom Care Partner Group 2nd Fri, 1:00 pm Diana, 360.892.1985

NEW SUPPORT GROUP FOR TIME OF LOSS Beyond PD Support Group meets online on the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 3pm. This meeting is for people who have lost someone to Parkinson’s recently. It is a small, newly formed group that is welcoming new members. Please contact Libby Kennard for information - 541.345.2988.

MORE INFO! (800) 426-6806 - WWW.PARKINSONSRESOURCES.ORG

PRO-Newsletter-2024-Q1.indd 11

FIRST QUARTER, 2024 • 11

12/12/23 12:18 PM

This newsletter is published four times a year.

Articles published in this newsletter are solely for your information and should not be relied on as medical advice.

PERSPECTIVES Canine Connections

Pg 1

Calendar of Events

pg 2

Have a Ball!

pg 5

Monthly Giving

pg 7

Musicians Corner

pg 8

Parkinson’s Resources of Oregon 8880 SW Nimbus Ave Ste B Beaverton, OR 97008

NONPROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

PORTLAND, OR PERMIT NO. 2037

Return Service requested

Looking for Adventure? pg 9 Group Meetings

pg 10

OHSU Study

pg 12

CONTACT US info@parkinsonsresources.org

If you would rather not receive this publication, please contact us at 800.426.6806 or info@parkinsonsresources.org

toll-free: (800) 426-6806

Are You a Candidate to Help PD Research STUDY CURRENTLY RECRUITING AT OHSU Investigating Statin Use Impact on Movements in PD Were you diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease after age 50? Have you been on levodopa for 5 years or more? Have you not had deep brain stimulation surgery? Have you taken a statin?

not have to have these abnormal involuntary movements, or any statin use in your history to qualify. This is a research study and not for treatment or diagnosis of PD. You may not benefit from participating in this study. However, by serving as a subject, you may help us learn how to benefit patients in the future.

You may qualify for a mid – to latestage Parkinson’s Disease study recruiting in Portland. This study looks at if abnormal involuntary movements and statin use. You do

The study requires 1 virtual visit and 1 all-day visit at OHSU. You will arrive at 08:00 am in the “OFF” state.

Every half hour starting at 09:00 am we will assess your Parkinson’s dis-

12 • FIRST QUARTER, 2024

PRO-Newsletter-2024-Q1.indd 12

ease, your movements, and complete some questionnaires. You will have an intravenous injection of levodopa from 09:30 – 11:30 am.

The study visit will end after you turn “OFF”. You will receive $10 for completing the virtual visit and $50 for the all-day visit. If interested in more information, call the study coordinator at (503) 220 – 8262 x 54687.

Are you interested in learning about other research opportunities? Contact the OHSU Parkinson

MORE INFO! (800) 426-6806 - WWW.PARKINSONSRESOURCES.ORG

12/12/23 12:18 PM